• Getting around

    Tairāwhiti 101

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How do you get to Gisborne and explore the Stunning East Cape?

The wild beauty and remoteness of the region means transport options are limited and worth knowing about before you go. Whether that’s bus, rental car, or taxi, we’ve got you covered with info below.

 

Getting to Gisborne

Getting to Gisborne is a breeze for those coming from outside the area. Air New Zealand operates five daily flights from both Auckland and Wellington to Gisborne Airport. Alternatively, Intercity offer a convenient bus service connecting major cities directly to Gisborne, with arrivals at the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Information Centre on Grey Street.

If driving, State Highway 2 links the region to Hawke's Bay and Ōpōtiki through the Waioeka Gorge, while Highway 35 provides a scenic drive along the East Coast, passing through charming towns like Te Kaha, Waihau Bay, Te Araroa, Tokomaru Bay, and Tolaga Bay.

Despite the challenging weather this year, all roads in the region are open, offering numerous ways to explore Tairāwhiti Gisborne. Stay informed with Waka Kotahi for any road updates. Use the handy tool below to plan your journey, whether flying or driving to Tairāwhiti.

Within Gisborne and immediate surrounds

Gisborne City boasts remarkable compactness – just a 5-minute drive from the airport to the CBD. The best way to explore the Tairāwhiti region is by and vehicle there are plenty of options available. 

Round the East Cape

The roads winding up the coast and around scenic State Highway 35 are gorgeous, and the settlements are remote. There is no major bus service, so your options are Cooks Courier, rental car, or hiring a bike for a real adventure.

Cooks Passenger and Courier Service leave from the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Information Centre daily between 1.30 pm and 2 pm, and drives as far as Wharekahika/Hicks Bay, stopping at towns along the way. For bookings, please call 021 371 364.

If you’ve explored the area and are wanting to get from the top of the Cape over to Ōpōtiki, you can take the Bay Bus from Pōtaka (Lottin Point) to Ōpōtiki: timetable and stops here.

Air Gisborne

Gisborne/Transport

Air Gisborne

Air Gisborne offers beautiful scenic and charter flights as well as flight training.

Bikeys

Gisborne/Transport

Bikeys

Bikeys is a full service bike shop in Gisborne.

Gisborne

Tairawhiti/Transport

Gisborne

Go Bus supply dependable, high-quality coaches for large groups. Prices are competitive and include a professional driver for the duration of your trip.

Gisborne

Tairawhiti/Transport

Gisborne

Rent with confidence and choose Avis for your Car Rental to explore New Zealand. Avis offers a wide range of rental cars in 38 different branches located across the country.

Gisborne

Tairawhiti/Transport

Gisborne

With over 40 car rental locations nationwide Budget Rent a Car can help you on the road to discovery.

Gisborne Taxis

Gisborne/Transport

Gisborne Taxis

Gisborne Taxis - offering a local taxi service in Tairāwhiti Gisborne.

Gisborne Tours

Gisborne/Transport

Gisborne Tours

Historical, cultural, scenic, ecological, outdoor activity, adventure, golf and winery tours.

Hertz Gisborne

Tairawhiti/Transport

Hertz Gisborne

Discover New Zealand with a car rental from any one of our 42 branches in all major cities and airports. Our fleet of late model vehicles are equipped with the latest safety features, so you can travel in comfort and enjoy the drive.

Motu Trails Hire and Shuttle

Tairawhiti/Transport

Motu Trails Hire and Shuttle

Mountain bike hire & Shuttle servicing the Motu Trails cycle-way Opotiki & other local tracks for mountain bikers and trampers The best departure point for the Pakihi track, with two 11 seater shuttle buses. Accommodation & camping right in the bush

Thrifty Gisborne Airport

Tairawhiti/Transport

Thrifty Gisborne Airport

Choose Thrifty for competitive rental rates, a fleet of modern 5 star ANCAP safety rated vehicles, convenient on-airport collection & a team of friendly service-focused staff.

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